Weight Control Resources
| Author: Judy Kohn, RN, BSN, CDE |
| Last Updated: Monday, February 13, 2006 |
Q: "Can you give me some tips for losing weight?"
A: As you can imagine, weight loss is a very challenging topic, and there is no easy answer. I always say that if I had the answer to weight control, I’d be rich, famous—and thin.
The Problem:
I’m sure you are well aware that many factors contribute to the current rise in obesity in our country:
- Portion sizes: US research has shown that in the past 20 years, the size of a standard hamburger has increased by 112% and bagels by 19%. Pasta servings are 480% bigger and biscuits and cookies are 700% larger than they were 20 years ago.
- Poor diet and inactivity are literally killing us, as the CDC reported that these issues will soon overtake tobacco as the leading cause of preventable deaths.
- Obesity is increasing in our youth, every week there is a major story in the media about the epidemic of obesity.
- Heredity: Research indicates that while obesity is mostly related to environmental causes, there can be a genetic and perhaps hormonal component as well, which is still being explored.
Regardless, the point is that obesity is a complex and ever growing problem, and must be managed by a multiple approach. While I will provide you with resources and various internet links, I’m sure you can appreciate that it takes more than reading internet information to successfully lose weight and keep it off. So I hope you will read this information, and then make an appointment with your diabetes team to obtain a plan that will work for you.
1st Step: Obtain a referral to a dietitian
I have written frequently about how important it is to obtain an individualized assessment and recommendation for a healthy meal plan tailored to your particular needs. I cannot emphasize enough that there is no “one size fits all” diet. Be sure to keep a record of your food intake for at least a week so the dietitian can see what your usual eating patterns are. Be honest! That is the only way the dietitian can truly help you.
2nd Step: Talk to your healthcare team about getting active
3rd Step: Enlist your family and friends for support
Managing diabetes and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is challenging, and you shouldn’t have to do it alone. Your family and friends do want what is best for you, but sometimes they need you to tell them what you want and need. Additionally, many people also choose to join a support group, whether it is a diabetes support group or weight loss group.
Conclusion:
I know this can seem overwhelming. Just remember:
- You are not alone.
- There are many resources available to help you.
- Take it one day at a time.
- Even small steps can yield big rewards.
Related Questions
Exercise Guide
Q:
"I know exercise is good for me but I just can’t get started. Can you give
me some tips?"
Childhood Obesity—A Growing Problem
Q:
"I keep reading that obesity is on the rise, and that more children are
getting type 2 diabetes. Why is this happening?"
Pedometer
Q:
"I have been hearing about wearing a pedometer and counting steps. Would
you explain this?"
How much exercise?
Q:
"What is considered an adequate amount of exercise? I don’t exercise, but
now that I have diabetes, I think I should."
Nutrition Advice
Q:
"Can you provide me with some nutrition recommendations for a diabetic
diet? I am newly diagnosed and am afraid to eat anything!"
Related Links
Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention Campaigns
http://www.cdcfoundation.org/programs/lifestyles/index.aspx
U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources Small Steps, Big Rewards:
Tips, newsletter, and more.
http://www.smallstep.gov/
WebMD Diabetes on the Menu
http://my.webmd.com/content/article/56/65882
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK)
http://www.niddk.nih.gov
Calorie Control Council
http://www.caloriecontrol.com/
Important Notice: The responses provided by the team of Diabetes Educators are based on their personal experiences and expertise as practicing diabetes healthcare professionals, and are not to be considered diabetes management advice from Abbott Laboratories. Remember that information provided by the team of Diabetes Educators is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to healthcare issues.
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